Encyclopedia of Opinion
Question
Should hate speech be illegal?
Position‹3 of 3

Hate speech shouldn't concern the law

This position holds that hate speech is not a matter for the law at all. It argues the government should not dictate what people say, that banning hate speech is hypocritical and unworkable, and that—since it has always existed—different cultures handle it in their own ways.

Supporting arguments · 3

  1. Hate speech will always be a part of history
    Unfortunately, hate speech is a part of history. Countries have been fighting each other and conquering each other’s land for centuries. It’s something that can never be avoided because people will always hate something.
  2. It's hypocritical to try and make hate speech illegal
    Hurtful words will always be around. Bullies, passive aggressiveness, and slander are simply a part of society that everyone must grow up with and ignore. If people put up with verbal aggression like this, then hate speech should be tolerated too.
  3. Different cultures deal with hate speech in different ways
    Hate speech is prevalent in different cultures and countries. Since they're not doing anything to stop it, hate speech shouldn't be a global issue.